Psychology

Aging Research

Are you an adult who wants to help scientists understand how the mind works?

Psychological scientists at Grand Valley State University study how age affects the functioning of the human mind. We are looking for adults of any age who are interested in participating in research studies. Some of the questions we ask are:

• How do memory and emotions change as we get older?

• How are the social relationships of adults different from those of children and adolescents?

• How is our health related to our mental functioning?

• Does age affect how adults react to life events?

What does it mean to sign up for the adult participant pool?

We will ask you for contact information and basic facts about yourself, such as age and gender. This, and all information, will be kept confidential. We will use that information to contact you about particular studies to see if you are interested. You will then decide if you want to participate.

What is it like to participate in a study?

Every study is different. In some, you might be asked questions about your life and relationships, and in others you might engage in challenging and interesting thinking tasks. At the end of each study, we will be glad to discuss what we are trying to learn. Most studies last 90 minutes or less.

What are the risks of being in a research study?

Most studies have little or no risk. Before every study, you will be given information so you can decide for yourself if you want to participate.

Who conducts the research?

The research projects are directed by Ph.D.-level scientists in the Psychology Department at Grand Valley State University.

Where are the studies done?

Some studies are conducted at our Grand Valley laboratories, others at off-site locations. Our labs are located in downtown Grand Rapids at the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus and in the Psychology Department on our Allendale Campus. You will be given detailed information about the location of a study when you are contacted about it.

What happens when I return the reply card?

You are not committing to participate in a study when you send us your card. You are simply requesting more information and letting us know you may be interested in participating. We will send you an acknowledgment that we received your card. We will also contact you to answer any questions you have and ask for some basic information that will help us reach you for future studies.

How can I get more information about the adult participant pool and what it involves?

Call the Grand Valley State University Psychology Department office at 616-331-2915 and ask for the adult participant pool coordinator. You can also email us at psydept@gvsu.edu.